I enjoy making introductions of business owners I know to others at the event who they could benefit by.  Many times I will meet someone new and because I go to many events, host many more and have been networking for over 16 years I am able to introduce them to my many contacts in attendance.  I also look for opportunities to speak and share my knowledge at future events.

I think my participation in local networking events has been one of the most successful avenues of growing my business. I offer B2B Services such as website design, social media management and marketing. I am able to meet business owners that are serious about growing their businesses at these events. I also like to offer myself for educational speaking engagements at these events to share my knowledge with my local, fellow business owners.

Find out about their business, any specialty, why they got into business and how can I help them and their business.  Who is their ideal client?

I attend networking events on a regular basis, in my opinion it's the best way to get yourself known & develop relationships. I always ask what someone does and the type of referral they are looking for. If I can provide them with a lead right there I will or I'll follow up with them later, if I can't I'll let them know that too. 

I value the relationships I can make more than trying to sell a project right then and there. Developing a long term, lasting relationship pays off much better than any immediate business I could acquire.

In my opinion networking is part of the total marketing package.  It doesn't translate into a "sales" activity unless it brings revenue.  Make sure you are clear on what you hope to achieve through networking......your mileage will vary.

I enjoy meeting new people who have new businesses that are just getting started.  Encouraging the group to share their marketing techniques and help those that need advise as well is a huge benefit to networking.   

Whenever possible, I review the attendee list before a networking event to familiarize myself with who will be there and make note of the people I'd like to meet - either b/c I've heard of them or they work in an area that complements mine, i.e. we have similar clients. I genuinely enjoy meeting new people who are sincere about participating in a strong community and helping others. 

It one of many trusts points to build connections. I go to help people.  I go to deepen connections that lead to referrals. 

I unfortunately don't attend many networking events due to my schedule, however I enjoy meeting people and finding out how our service can enhance their particular business/group. I use email a lot to connect with people who are just as busy as me. 

I chose so many of them from the list as I love going to events and meeting new people as well as old acquaintances.  Networking is key to growing our businesses but it also is a wonderful way make new friends for life.